Walt, Lewis W., 1913-

Lewis William Walt (b. Feb. 16, 1913, Wabaunsee County, Kan.-d. March 26, 1989, Gulfport, Miss.), U.S. Marine Corps officer, enlisted in the Colorado National Guard at the age of 17, and after graduating from university in 1936, he accepted an appointment in the Marines. During the late 1930s he served in two overseas assignments: China and Guam. In 1942 he joined the 1st Marine Raider Battalion, serving on Samoa and the British Solomon Islands. He then became commanding officer, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, taking part in combat on Guadalcanal. Wounded in action, he continued in combat, and later took command of the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines. After treatment for wounds and malaria, he returned to the Pacific area, and on D-Day he again commanded the 3rd Battalion in the battle for the beachhead. General Walt also served in Korea as commanding officer, 5th Marines. In 1965 he assumed command of III Marine Amphibious Force and 3rd Marine Division in Vietnam. He was also Chief of Naval Forces, Vietnam, and Senior Advisor, I Corps and I Corps Coordinator, Republic of Vietnam. He retired from active service in 1971.

Marine Corps officer.